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The clinical significance of fungi in atopic dermatitis

Arsa Thammahong1, Chanisa Kiatsurayanon2, Steven W Edwards3

  • 1Antimicrobial Resistance and Stewardship Research Unit, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.

International Journal of Dermatology
|May 23, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Fungal infections, often overlooked, can worsen atopic dermatitis (AD) symptoms. This review covers fungal infection aspects in AD, including diagnosis and treatment effectiveness for better patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Mycology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease influenced by genetics, environment, and infections.
  • Bacterial and viral infections frequently exacerbate AD, but fungal infections are less studied.
  • Fungal infections, including Malassezia, Candida, and dermatophytes, can impact AD symptoms and are sometimes misdiagnosed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations of fungal infections in atopic dermatitis.
  • To highlight overlooked features of fungal infections that mimic AD lesions.
  • To discuss the diagnosis and effectiveness of antifungal treatments in AD patients.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on fungal infections in atopic dermatitis.
  • Analysis of epidemiological data, pathogenesis, and clinical presentations.
  • Evaluation of diagnostic approaches and treatment outcomes for fungal infections in AD.

Main Results:

  • Fungal infections are present in AD lesions and can aggravate symptoms.
  • Clinical features of fungal infections may resemble AD, leading to delayed diagnosis.
  • Certain fungal infections require specific consideration in AD patients with treatment resistance.

Conclusions:

  • Fungal infections are a significant, yet often underestimated, factor in atopic dermatitis.
  • Early and accurate diagnosis of fungal infections is crucial for effective AD management.
  • Antifungal treatments can be beneficial for AD patients with confirmed fungal co-infections.

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